Automated newspaper rack inventory and alert management system

ABSTRACT

The present invention describes various methods and apparatus to increase efficiency and sales of a Newspaper Rack. Several sensors are positioned throughout the Newspaper Rack to monitor when the remaining inventory reaches a predetermined quantity or is depleted. A logic circuit monitors the sensors and when the sensors change state, a signal is transmitted to a central location. The central location may add time-stamping, reference the location, and compile the information into a database. The central location notifies the proper party to service the Newspaper Rack. The Newspaper Rack can include various mechanisms to stimulate customers into purchasing a Newspaper, such as a visual display or audible means. The stimulating information can be obtained and/or changed using wireless transmission to a receiver. The Newspaper Rack can include external monitoring devices to gather information for traffic flow, weather, or other desirable information. This can offset the service costs for monitoring the inventory levels. Power consumption and replenishment are considered by the inclusion of solar cells to recharge the battery, placement of the battery under the platform for ease of replacement, and the inclusion of a battery monitoring circuit for optimizing replacement.

RELATED US APPLICATION DATA

[0001] This patent application claims priority to CIP Utility patentapplication Ser. No. 10/086,577 Filed Feb. 28, 2002 which was claimspriority to patent applicationSer. No. 09/563,622 Filed May 5, 2000which was claims priority to Provisional Patent Application 60/133,656filed May 11, 1999, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] Continuity of Inventorship: Kim Marie Nelson name was changed toKim Marie Hertz by marriage on Apr. 27, 2002. A copy of the State ofFlorida Marriage Record is attached herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates in general to a method for an automatedinventory monitoring system for a Newspaper Rack using wirelesstransmitters, the internet, and other automated notification means.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention is generally related to the use of remoteautomated apparatus for monitoring of inventory of Newspaper Racks.Newspaper racks are unique in that they are generally located where itwould not be conducive to provide utilities such as power or telephone.Newspaper racks further utilize an honor system for purchases, whereby aconsumer would insert change into a payment mechanism, the paymentmechanism would allow the access door to open, and the consumer wouldhonorably withdraw a single copy of the Newspaper.

[0005] Newspaper racks do not distribute change. They do not havesensors. They normally do not support portable power such as batteries.

[0006] Newspaper racks are desired to be manufactured of low costmaterials and able to withstand harsh environments, including extremevariances in temperatures, extreme variances in humidity, salt spray(for corrosion), physical abuse, and the like.

[0007] The Newspaper companies print a predetermined quantity ofNewspapers referred to as a draw. The draw is then distributed to thefleet of Newspaper Racks. The Single Copy Sales Manager uses verylimited information to assist in the distribution process.

[0008] It is desirable for the Single Copy Sales Manager to obtainverification that each Newspaper Rack is filled and the time in whicheach Newspaper Rack is filled as well as when the inventory of each ofthe Newspaper Racks is depleted. This can aid in the distribution of thedraw and further redistribution of the draw upon depletion of theinventory. This will result in optimizing profits.

[0009] Newspaper Racks are normally located adjacent Newspaper Racks ofcompeting companies. The optimal sales period for Newspapers isgenerally considered between 6 AM and 1 PM. Should the inventory of aNewspaper Rack become depleted prior to the end of the optimal timeperiod, it would be desirable to replenish the inventory of theNewspaper Rack.

[0010] A majority of the revenue for a Newspaper company is fromadvertisements. Advertisements require distribution of the printedmedia. When the Newspaper Racks are empty, the process is no longer ableto distribute the media or provide the desired advertisements. Theability to ensure the advertisements are available to the consumerenhances the value of the advertisement process and cost to theadvertiser.

[0011] Newspaper Racks are located in a multitude of locations. Themultitude of locations provides the ability to monitor weather, persons,traffic, and the like proximate the location of the Newspaper racks.

[0012] Single paper distribution racks are known.

[0013] It would be desirable for a Single Copy Sales Manager to obtaindemographics pertaining to the deployed number of Newspaper racks inorder to predict an optimal distribution pattern.

[0014] Currently a consumer can enjoy the convenience of purchasing fuelwithout waiting to interact with an attendant through the implementationof automated payment systems at the fuel pumps, as taught by Wostl, etal (U.S. Pat. No. 3,786,421) and Gentile, et al (U.S. Pat. No.3,931,497). Wostl, et al teaches the use of a credit card reader for thedistribution of goods using an automated article dispensing system.Gentile, et al teaches similar to Wostl, with the focus on dispensingfuel. Both Wostl and Gentile teach the use of dispensing products fromone of the specified dispensing machines.

[0015] The automated payment system receives the customer's paymentinformation from any of several known methods such as reading a magneticstrip coupled to a plastic card, reading a coding from a Radio Frequencysignal for a device such as a proximity card, direct interface to anintegrated circuit card such as a smart card, or any other derivedautomated payment system recognized by one skilled in the art.

[0016] Upon authorization of the customer's provided automated paymentsystem, the automated payment system allows the customer to dispensefuel into the customer's fuel storage device. Upon completion, thesystem records and communicates the transaction to the customer'spayment institution. The automated payment system signals the customerfor a receipt. Optionally, the automated payment system inquires thecustomer about including a car wash in the transaction. The automatedtransaction system provides a code to where the consumer enters the codeinto a keypad at the car wash to enable the car wash. Once a response tothe inquiry is entered, or the automated transaction system completes atime out cycle, the automated transaction system completes thetransaction.

[0017] Fuel stations have trended to include convenience marts at thesame location, where the convenience marts provide sales of beverages,snacks, vehicle supplies (oils, fluids, etc.), newspapers, cigarettes,and even fast food retailers. Should the customer desire to purchasefuel and other items, the customer must complete two separatetransactions and wait to interact with an attendant for servicing.Alternatively, the customer may purchase some convenience items throughdispensing/vending machines, which require currency. The use of creditcards for a single dispensing machine purchase is normally costprohibitive, as the cost of the purchase does not justify the incurredcost of the transaction. These reasons may deter the customer frommaking additional purchases. Alternatively, Vayda (U.S. Pat. No.4,169,521) teaches a drive in, single stop shopping facility, using anattendant to service the vehicle and the customer.

[0018] Drive through systems are becoming an institution within severalindustries, including fast food, drugstores, and the like.

[0019] Selective call receivers, such as paging devices, wirelesspersonal data assistants, and the like, are known to remotely controldevices such as lawn sprinkling systems for golf courses.

[0020] Selective call receivers, such as paging devices, wirelesspersonal data assistants, and the like, are known to have two way signaltransmission capabilities.

[0021] Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD's) and video monitors are knowntechnologies that are used as customer interface devices at fuel pumps.

[0022] Automated teller machines (ATM's) are known to have flexible,soft menus using each entry point for multiple functions.

[0023] Newspaper dispensers are preferred to be low cost, free standing,and located in remote locations. Additionally, the newspaper dispensersare generally placed at locations that are not conducive to wiredfacilities, such as power, communications, and the like.

[0024] Vending machines and more specifically newspaper sales requiredthat the automated vending machine have inventory. Newspapers have ashelf life of 24 hours, thus increasing the need for inventory control.Excess inventory must be scrapped; shortages limit the potential sales.

[0025] Automated dispensing or vending machines are known. Signaltransmissions or other means to interface between two electroniccircuits are known.

[0026] Global Positioning Systems are known.

[0027] What is desired is a method and apparatus to provide for thecustomer to acquire goods through an automated dispensing machine andusing a remote financial transaction system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The present invention addresses the deficiencies in the presentstate of optimizing Newspaper Sales, including monitoring inventory,providing capabilities to pay via credit card, debit card, and other viaa remote payment system, providing visual and audible signals toinfluence consumers, and changing sales prices.

[0029] A first aspect to the present invention is the ability to monitora Newspaper Rack and identify when the Newspaper rack is filled.

[0030] A second aspect to the present invention is the ability tomonitor a Newspaper Rack and identify when the inventory of theNewspaper rack is depleted.

[0031] A third aspect of the present invention is the ability totransmit a signal from a Newspaper Rack to identify when the inventoryof the Newspaper Rack is filled or depleted.

[0032] A forth aspect of the present invention is the ability to receivethe transmitted signal, determine the location of the rack.

[0033] A fifth aspect of the present invention is the ability toidentify the time in which the signal is transmitted or received.

[0034] A sixth aspect to the present invention is the ability to furthertransfer the information received via the internet to electronicallytransfer and record any desirable information.

[0035] A seventh aspect to the present invention is the ability tomonitor a Newspaper rack for any unwarranted motion, such as vandalism.One such means would be a mercury switch.

[0036] An eighth aspect of the present invention is the ability tomonitor external activities such as traffic, weather, and the like usingsensors proximate the Newspaper Rack.

[0037] A ninth aspect of the present invention is the ability totransfer information to a Newspaper Rack to change the price of theNewspaper.

[0038] A tenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion of anLED display and respective circuitry to visually attract consumers.

[0039] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the inclusion of aspeaker and respective circuitry to record and play an audible messageto attract consumers.

[0040] A twelfth aspect of the present invention is the ability totransfer a message to a Newspaper Rack to attract consumers, wherebysome examples would be to flash a specific headline across an LEDdisplay to visually attract consumers, a sound transmission to audiblytransmit a signal to attract consumers, and the like.

[0041] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion ofsolar power panels for power sourcing and optionally recharging ofbatteries.

[0042] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion ofa charging system that utilizes the process of opening and closing theaccess door on a Newspaper Rack to power the charging system.

[0043] A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion of ameans to identify when a newspaper is placed within a door of aNewspaper Rack.

[0044] A sixteenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion ofan electromechanical switch to identify when a newspaper is placedwithin the door of a Newspaper Rack.

[0045] A seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion ofa means to identify when a newspaper is placed upon a platform of aNewspaper Rack.

[0046] An eighteenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion ofa electro-mechanical switch to identify when a newspaper is placed uponthe platform of a Newspaper Rack.

[0047] A nineteenth aspect of the present invention is the inclusion ofan adjustable platform, whereby the present invention includes a meansto identify when the platform moves beyond a predetermined positionwithin the Newspaper Rack.

[0048] A twentieth aspect of the present invention is a Newspaper Rackthat includes a battery holder positioned on the underside of aplatform.

[0049] A twenty-first aspect of the present invention is a NewspaperRack that includes a battery holder whereby the battery contains twoterminals located at one end and whereby when the battery is insertedinto the battery holder, the two battery terminals make electricalconnectivity with two respective receiving battery contacts.

[0050] A twenty-second aspect of the present invention is the inclusionof a means that a service person can cause the system to transmit asignal identifying a service completion.

[0051] A twenty-third aspect of the present invention is the use of aremote means to change the price of respective goods.

[0052] A twenty-forth aspect of the present invention is the ability tomonitor the inventory of a Newspaper Rack whereby the Newspaper Rack isa shelf, rack, and the like positioned proximate a sales counter forretail sales. The shelf, rack, and the like, does not automatically sellor use the honor system to sell newspapers.

[0053] A twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the ability tomonitor the status of the battery.

[0054] A twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention is the inclusionof a alert sensor which changes state upon a resulting abnormal motionof the Newspaper Rack, wherein the abnormal motion would suggestvandalism or theft of the Newspaper Rack.

[0055] A twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention is the inclusionof a global positioning system to monitor the location of the newspaperrack.

[0056] A twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention is the inclusionof a circuit which activates the global positioning system upon anabnormal motion, wherein the abnormal motion would suggest vandalism ortheft of the Newspaper Rack.

[0057] A twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention is the inclusionof an inventory sensor that monitors the inventory of a single copynewspaper distribution rack.

[0058] A thirtieth aspect of the present invention is the positioning ofthe inventory sensor proximate a presentation mechanism of the singlecopy newspaper distribution rack, wherein the presentation mechanismdispenses the single copy of the newspaper to the customer.

[0059] A thirty-first aspect of the present invention is the positioningof the inventory sensor proximate an indexing mechanism of the singlecopy newspaper distribution rack, wherein the indexing mechanism pushesthe single copy of the newspaper towards the dispenser.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] For the purpose of initially illustrating the invention, there isshown in the flow diagram, an embodiment that is presently preferred. Itshould be understood, however, that the present invention is not limitedto the specific instrumentalities and methods disclosed. It can berecognized that the flow diagram represents a method and the associatedapparatuses required to make the method in which persons skilled in theart may make various flow and interface diagrams from therein. In thedrawing:

[0061]FIG. 1 is a flow chart diagram illustrating one potential processfor achieving the desired invention. It should be understood that theorder or process steps may deviate from the flow diagram provided, whilemaintaining the spirit and intent of the present invention.

[0062]FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a second potential processfor achieving the desired invention.

[0063]FIG. 3 is a conceptual schematic illustrating the preferredembodiment of the present invention.

[0064]FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a Newspaper Rack integrated forpayment with a fuel dispenser.

[0065]FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a Newspaper Rack further detailingthe operation of the present invention in the preferred embodiment.

[0066]FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram of a means to communicate to aremote service request from a Newspaper Rack to a Service Person.

[0067]FIG. 7 is a cross sectional diagram illustrating optionalplacement of components of the present invention.

[0068]FIG. 8 is an isometric view illustrating features of the presentinvention.

[0069]FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of a platform illustratingdetails of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070]FIG. 1 represents a flow diagram providing a general template forthe present invention, where the spirit and intent of the presentinvention provides a means for a customer to make purchases from aNewspaper Rack using the same automated transactional purchase of fuelwithout the requirement to interact with an attendant. A first step 20in the preferred embodiment would be to insert a means for payment suchas depositing cash, credit card, debit card, smart card, or other intoan automated payment system a means to approve payment. A second step 21in the preferred embodiment would be where the customer would select thefuel type. A third step 22 in the preferred embodiment would be wherethe customer would begin dispensing fuel into the desired storagecontainer, generally a vehicle fuel tank. The forth step 23 in thepreferred embodiment would be where the customer has the ability tointerface with the automated payment system to request a purchase froman Newspaper Rack. A fifth step 24 in the preferred embodiment would bewhere the automated payment system provides options for purchase from aNewspaper Rack. A sixth step 25 in the preferred embodiment would bewhere the customer selects the desired purchase from either theNewspaper Rack or automated payment system. A seventh step 26 in thepreferred embodiment interfaces the automated payment system transmits asignal or electrical impulse to allow the door of the Newspaper Rack toopen. An eighth step 27 in the preferred embodiment provides a methodfor the customer to acquire the desired purchases from the NewspaperRack. A final step 28 in the preferred embodiment is the completion ofthe transaction, providing the tally of all purchases to the financialinstitution, reducing the tally on a smart card, or other known methodfor completing an automated transaction.

[0071] It can be recognized that one skilled in the art can provide avariety of processes that can accomplish the same result using manyvariations of the above teachings without diverging from the spirit andintent of the present invention.

[0072]FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a second embodiment ofthe present invention. The customer would provide a payment or means forpayment 50 to a remote automated payment system, where the remoteautomated payment system is one that is not located within or coupled toa Newspaper Rack. This may be by depositing cash, passing a credit cardwith a magnetic strip through a magnetic strip reader, inserting a smartcard with an Integrated Circuit into a respective reader, passing an RFinterface device across an RF reader, placing a users eye in front of aniris reader, placing a users finger onto a fingerprint reader, or anyother known or developed method to determine the user and/or respectivefinancial institution. The customer would follow the respectiveprocedure to enable the remote automated payment system 50 to make therespective payment process. The customer would indicate that thecustomer desires to purchase a Newspaper from a Newspaper Rack 52. Thecustomer can indicate the desire for purchase of a Newspaper from aNewspaper Rack by either asking an attendant at a drive through window,requesting desired purchase at the remote payment system, requesting thedesired purchase at the Newspaper Rack, and the like. Once the remotepayment system receives a signal that the customer desires to purchase aNewspaper and the remote payment system verifies the payment means, theremote payment system would then provide a signal to allow the customerto access the Newspaper from the Newspaper Rack 54. The signal would betransmitted to the Newspaper Rack to allow the customer to access theNewspaper from the Newspaper Rack 56. The Newspapers are distributed onan honor system, whereby the customer is honored to take one and onlyone newspaper. The customer may purchase other items including but notlimited to cash, fuel, and and other items which are dispensed by othermachines. The preferred embodiment would be a credit or debit cardremote automated payment system placed within a gasoline dispenser. Anfirst alternate embodiment would be the use of an Automated TellerMachine (ATM) that dispenses cash. A second alternate would be a cashierat a drive through window, such as for fast food. The remote paymentsystem would complete the transaction 58.

[0073]FIG. 3 illustrates the a architectural diagram which includes anautomated payment system 100, which includes a customer paymentidentification device 110, such as a credit card reader, a cash reader,an RF reader, a fingerprint reader, an iris recognition system, and thelike, a remote interface device 120, such as a landline modem or awireless modem, a logic circuit 180, and a user interface device 130such as an LCD or video monitor and associated user entry features suchas push buttons or touch screen display. All of the above components arecurrently known and available in various forms. It should be recognizedthat as processes for automated payment methods advance, these advancedmethods and the associated changes would be included within the spiritand intent of the present invention. One such example would be smartcards that maintain a value balance within the card memory and do notrequire a modem or other method for contacting a financial institutiondatabase 150. Other methods of customer payment identification means mayalso be developed such as finger-print or iris recognition should alsobe considered and should be included within the spirit and intent of thepresent invention. The automated payment system may include a keypad anda request for a code from the customer to ensure security. The automatedpayment system 100 recognizes the associated payment method provided bythe customer 140. The automated payment system 100 validates the paymentmethod currently by using a remote interface device 120 such as a modemover communication lines to contact a financial institution's database150, where the financial institution's database would complete averification check and provide authorization to the automated paymentsystem 100. Once the payment method is authorized, the automated paymentsystem 100 transmits a signal to a fuel dispensing apparatus 160allowing the customer 140 to transfer fuel from the fuel storage tank(not shown) to a desired customer storage tank (not shown) such as agasoline tank of a vehicle. The user interface 130 includes a method forthe customer 140 to request additional purchases such as from aNewspaper Rack 300 located proximate the automated payment system 100.Should the customer 140 request an additional transaction besides fuel,the automated payment system 100 would interface with the desiredNewspaper Rack 300. The present invention may apply many variations ofimplementation and all should be considered within the spirit and intentof the present invention. The automated payment system 100 may utilize auser interface 130 such as a flexible, soft menu (see FIG. 4) to providemultiple interface methods with a limited number of entry devices. Thecustomer would communicate with the system that the customer desires toadditionally purchase a Newspaper using the user interface 130. Theautomated payment system would communicate with the Newspaper Rack 300and allow the customer 140 to acquire a Newspaper (see FIG. 4). Theelectronic circuitry and metering system (not shown) within the fueldispensing apparatus 160 would provide a total purchase (gallons, value,or both) to the automated payment system 100. Upon completion of allpurchases, a logic circuit 180 would tally the total sale and completethe automated payment process. In the case that requires interfacingwith a financial institution 150, the automated payment system 100 wouldinterface with the financial institution 150 using the remote interfacedevice 120 and transmit the tallied sale. It should be understood thatthe architectural diagram illustrates one method to achieve the desiredresults of one automated payment system 100 when interfacing anautomated payment system 100 which primary function is to control a fueldispenser to at least one Newspaper Rack 300 for one financialtransaction. There are many other methods achieve the same resultswithin the spirit and intent of the present invention.

[0074]FIG. 4 illustrates an isometric view of one proposedimplementation of the present invention, including a completelyautomated multiple purchase fuel station 200. The automated multiplepurchase fuel station 200 includes an automated payment and fueldispensing system 210. At least one of the multiple fuel dispensers 212would be allowed to operate upon authorization of the payment methodfrom the automated payment system 100. It can be recognized that theautomated payment system 100 may be mounted in conjunction with orexternal to the automated fuel dispensing system 210 and control one ormultiple fuel dispensers 212. The automated payment system 100 may be ofvarious forms and functions without deviated from the spirit or intentof the present invention. The illustrated automated payment system 100includes a customer payment identification device 110, illustrated as acard reader, a remote interface device 120 (not shown in FIG. 4) and auser interface device 130 illustrated as a flexible, soft menu LCD 215and respective entry points 220, such as push buttons or touch pads. Theflexible, soft menu LCD 215 includes software provided through a logiccircuit 180 (not shown in FIG. 4) to change the functions of each entrypoint 220 and identifying the function of each entry point 220 bychanging the user interface icons 230 displayed on the flexible, softmenu LCD 215. The customer (140 of FIG. 3) would enter a request foradditional purchases by selecting the respective entry point 220. Theautomated payment system 100 would display additional information todirect the customer (140 of FIG. 3) through the process to make thedesired purchase(s). The automated payment system 100 would transmit asignal via wires 235 or via remote payment transceiver 250 and NewspaperRack transceiver 255 to a Newspaper Rack 300. The Newspaper Rack 300 caninclude Newspaper Rack Payment circuitry 280 that controls an releasemechanism(not shown in detail in this figure) which would release thesales access door 240 and allow the customer 140 to acquire a newspaper310 upon receipt of a transmitted signal from the automated paymentsystem 100. The transmitted signal may be a voltage that causes asolenoid to reposition a pin, thus allowing the customer to open theaccess door and acquire the desired Newspaper 310. Optionally, the salesaccess door 240 can utilize the Newspaper Rack logic circuitry 280 tocommunicate with the automated payment system 100 to provide a methodfor confirmation of receipt of the Newspaper 310, commonly referred toas a closed loop system. It can be recognized that the remote paymenttransceiver 250 and the Newspaper Rack transceiver 255 may be designedto function as both receiver and transmitter, providing two-waycommunications, or the devices may include two such apparatus to providethe same results within the scope of the present invention. Theautomated payment system 100 completes the transaction by tallying thepurchases (fuel, Newspaper, and other goods), communicates with thefinancial institution data-base (150 of FIG. 3) to transact the tally,then optionally prints and dispenses a receipt 270 using a receiptprinter 260 for the customer (140 of FIG. 3).

[0075]FIG. 5 illustrates a more detailed isometric view of a NewspaperRack 300 to more clearly define the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. The Newspaper Rack 300 includes a housing comprising a topsurface 502, side surfaces 504, and front and rear surfaces 506. Thehousing contains mechanisms required to dispense newspapers, including asales access door 240 that is moveably coupled to the housing via hinges510. The sales access door 240 can include an access door handle 508, atransparent viewing panel 518 to display the current newspaper 310. TheNewspaper Rack 300 further includes a sales access door 240 releasemechanism, comprising a release solenoid 512 that activates a shaft 514,whereby the shaft 514 is placed into and removed from a lockingmechanism 516. The locking mechanism 516 may be a loop coupled to thesales access door 240. The solenoid 512 can be activated by a voltage orcurrent applied from a remote payment system (100 of FIG. 4) or aNewspaper Rack logic circuitry (280 of FIG. 4), whereby the NewspaperRack logic circuitry (280 of FIG. 4) may be controlled by a mechanicalor electromechanical coin receiving mechanism 290, a remote automatedpayment system 100, a Newspaper Rack transceiver 255, and the like. Thepresent invention introduces the novel apparatus of interfacing a remotepayment circuit 180 in a remote automated payment system 100 and theNewspaper Rack logic circuitry 280 in the Newspaper Rack 300 bytransmitting a signal via wire or wireless technology. Newspaper Racks300, in particular, further the need for low power consumption. By usinga remote automated payment system 100, the Newspaper Rack 300 reducesthe power consumption by diverting the power required for supporting thetechnologically advanced payment means such as credit card readers, RFreaders, iris recognition systems, and the like to another apparatus.This shift in power consumption makes the use of batteries as a powersource for some items in the Newspaper Rack 300 feasible. The use of aremote payment system further provides a means for methods of paymentsother than coins, such as credit cards, debit cards, cash tendered todrive through tellers, smart cards, other vending machines and the like.Credit and debit cards require communication facilities that are costly(and nearly impossible to provide) for Newspaper Rack 300. NewspaperRacks 300 are placed in remote locations, not generally convenient forany utilities such as power or wired or landline telephone, thuswireless transmissions would be required. Wireless transmissions arecurrently provided at a much higher cost than wired transmissions. Theaverage retail price of a Newspaper is approximately $0.50. Credit cardservice and wireless transmission charges would make the use of theseservices cost prohibitive. By combining the sale of the Newspaper withsales of other objects, the cost of the total sale is no longer costprohibitive. Drive through sales can be considered impulse sales as theconsumer is exposed to the option during the ordering process. When oneplaces a Newspaper Rack 300 in the drive-through lane and includes thecapabilities to purchase the Newspaper by including the request whenplacing the order with the other desired items purchased at the drivethrough during the same transaction. The Cashier would provide thesignal to the Newspaper Rack 300 to allow the customer (140 of FIG. 3)to acquire a Newspaper 310 by opening the sales access door 240.

[0076] Further, an inventory sensor 530 may be included in the newspapervending machine to sense either a low inventory or depleted inventory ofnewspapers 310. The inventory sensor 530 can interface with a NewspaperRack transceiver 255, whereby the sensor 530 can transmit a signalindependently or in conjunction with a logic circuit (not shown) to aNewspaper Rack transceiver 255 when the inventory reaches apredetermined count. The process will be described in detail within thespecification.

[0077] A service person would normally require a key or other depositoryaccess device 520 to access the coin depository (not shown). This can beused to cause the system to transmit a signal to inform the Single CopyManager that the Newspaper Rack 300 has been serviced, such as when theNewspaper Rack 300 was replenished with Newspapers 310.

[0078]FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagram that illustrates one method inwhich a transmitter can notify a party that a particular Newspaper Rack300 requires servicing. As the newspapers are sold, the inventory isreduced to a predetermined quantity or completely depleted, as in firststep 600. The reduction of inventory would meet or surpass apredetermined quantity whereby once the inventory surpasses thepredetermined quantity, a sensor 530 (and combined logic circuit) wouldcommunicate with a Newspaper Rack transceiver 255 to initiate a signalas a second step 602. The sensors can be placed within the door of theNewspaper Rack 300, coupled to the platform of the Newspaper Rack 300,coupled to the vertical platform control columns of the Newspaper Rack300, and the like. The applied sensor(s) would be preferably normally inone state such as normally open when the inventory is filled, and changeto an opposing state or closed, when the inventory reaches thepredetermined quantity such as depleted. These will be furtherillustrated in later figures. A logic circuit would regularly scan thevarious sensors to determine when a sensor has changed status. One suchexample is a logic circuit that would scan approximately every 5seconds. When the logic circuit determines that a sensor have changedstate, the Newspaper Rack transceiver 255 would then transmit a signalto a receiver as a third step 604. The signal can include an electronicserial number or the like to provide a means for the receiver toidentify the Newspaper Rack transceiver 255. The receiver would receivethe signal with the encoded information and decode it as a fourth step606. The receiving and decoding device would use the decoded informationto determine the location of the Newspaper Rack 300 that requiresservicing. The receiving and decoding device can further include a meansto determine the time and a means to record any desired information suchas specific Newspaper Rack 300 and time in which the signal is received.The specific Newspaper Rack 300 and deployed location can be determinedby comparing the electronic serial number (ESN) or other encodedinformation to a known database which cross-references the encodedinformation with a known location as a fifth step 608. The receiver anddecoding device would, in turn, use the location information todetermine which respective supplier should be notified to service theNewspaper Rack 300 and how to contact the respective supplier as a sixthstep 610. The receiver and decoding device can then communicate with therespective supplier using a selective call receiver, email, or in someother manner, to notify the respective supplier that the specificNewspaper Rack 300 requires servicing as a seventh step 612. Therespective supplier would then service the Newspaper Rack 300 as aneighth step 614. When the Service Person services the Newspaper Rack300, the service person would cause a signal to be transmitted statingthe Newspaper Rack 300 has been serviced. Several examples would bewhere the service person would use the key or other depository accessdevice (520 of FIG. 5) to open the sales access door 240, triggering aswitch on the inside of the Newspaper Rack 300, or any other means ofproviding a signal to the Newspaper Rack logic circuit 280 to identifythat the service person has provided service to the Newspaper Rack 300.The information may further be recorded at the receiver and decodingdevice, forwarded to the respective Single Copy Sales Manager, or thelike, to provide a means to track the activities of each particularNewspaper Rack 300.

[0079] A preferred embodiment would be to receive the signal, decode thedata transmission to determine the ESM and any encoded message, andtransfer the information to a server on the internet. Once theinformation is transferred to the server, the server would complete areference look-up using the ESM to determine the physical location ofthe Newspaper Rack 300. The server would determine the time theinformation was received. The server would complete a reference look-upusing the encoded message to determine the status of the Newspaper Rack300 that is to be conveyed to the Single Copy Sales Manager, ServicePerson, or other. The information would be compiled into a database fordemographic information, or any other useable information. The compiledinformation can be provided to the respective party such that therespective party may utilize the information to optimize the inventorymanagement for each individual vending machine 300. One such means wouldbe via an internet web site.

[0080]FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a modular Newspaper Rack 300.A modular Newspaper Rack 300 is a Newspaper Rack 300 that containsmultiple Newspaper 310 dispensing subsections or multiple NewspaperRacks 300 coupled to each other. The cross sectional view illustrates aNewspaper Rack 300 housing comprising a top surface 502, side surfaces504, a front and rear surface 506 and a bottom surface 702. A salesaccess door 240 would be coupled to the Newspaper Rack 300 housing viasales access door hinges 703. It is preferred that the sales access doorhinges 703 include springs or other means to automatically return thesales access door 240 to a closed position (as shown on the left).

[0081] The Newspaper Rack 300 includes a mechanical orelectro-mechanical coin receiving mechanism 290. The coin receivingmechanism 290 is used to register the payment made by the customer topurchase a Newspaper 310.

[0082] The service person would deposit a number of Newspapers 310 ontoa storage platform 700 as well as one Newspaper 310 into the salesaccess door 240. The sales platform 700 is suspended along multiplevertical platform control columns (not shown) by springs (not shown).The storage platform 700 would lower as a result of the weight of theNewspapers 310 against the force of the springs. The depositedNewspapers 310 will change the state of a platform inventory sensor 720and a sales access door inventory sensor 722. A sensor can be positionedrelationally to the platform 700 to identify when the platform passes apredetermined position, reflecting an estimated number of remainingNewspapers 310.

[0083] The sales access door 240 is maintained in a closed position by asales release mechanism illustrated herein as a solenoid 512 and shaft514, whereby the shaft 514 located to a loop 516 coupled to the salesaccess door 240. It is recognized that the solenoid 512 is only onemeans of many that can accomplish the same utility and the inventionherein should not be limited in scope by the means for maintainingclosure and allowing access to the deposited inventory of Newspapers310. Upon recognition of payment for the newspaper 310, the NewspaperRack 300 would disengage the sales release mechanism allowing the userto pull the sales access door handle 508, open the sales access door240, and remove a Newspaper 310. When the last Newspaper 310 is removedfrom the Newspaper Rack 300, the platform inventory sensor 720 and/orthe sales access door inventory sensor 722 would change states. A sensormay be positioned in a manner to determine when a specific number ofNewspapers 310 remain by positioning the sensor respective to theposition of the storage platform 700. It can be recognized that othersensor locations may be used within the scope of the present invention.The user would have the option of where to place the sensor.

[0084] The Newspaper Rack 300 would include a battery housing 710. Thepreferred embodiment would be to locate the battery housing 710proximate the bottom side of the storage platform 700. The currentconfiguration of the storage platform 700 includes a cutout locatedapproximately at the center of the storage platform 700. The cutout canbe used to access the battery housing 710.

[0085] The Newspaper Rack 300 would include a monitoring transmitter 712and a respective transmitting antenna 714. The preferred embodimentwould position the monitoring transmitter 712 along the top surface 502,towards the rear of the Newspaper Rack 300 and the transmitting antenna714 proximate the transparent viewing panel 518.

[0086] Module Newspaper Racks 300 would include a separation panel 706between two Newspaper Racks 300.

[0087]FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric frontal view of a Newspaper Rack300 further demonstrating several features of the present invention. Theillustration presents additional features of the sales access door 240,including the Newspaper support member 802 and retention member 804. ANewspaper 310 would be placed in the sales access door 240 in a mannerthat displays the Newspaper 310 through the transparent viewing panel518. The Newspaper 310 positioned within the sales access door 240 isnormally the last newspaper 310 sold. The newspaper 310 would bepositioned within the sales access door 240 in a manner to change thestate of the sales access door inventory sensor 722. The sales accessdoor inventory sensor 722 shown is a micro-switch that can be wired ineither normally closed or normally open positions. The micro-switchwould be coupled to the Newspaper support member 802 using an angledbracket and positioned where the activation finger protrudes through acutout within the Newspaper support member 802.

[0088] The illustration includes a solar panel 810, a visual display 800for visually attracting customers, and an audio emitting device 806 foraudibly attracting customers. The solar panel 810 would be used forpower. The power would be to supplement power to the Newspaper Rack 300or recharging a battery. The visual display 800 could be an LED module,LCD module or other means to provide changeable displays. The audioemitting device 806 could be a speaker or any similar device to transmitaudible signals to attract the attention of customers. Each of thesedevices visual display 800 and the audio emitting device 806 can beactivated by a proximity sensor, whereby when a potential customerpasses the Newspaper Rack 300, the proximity sensor would trigger acircuit and the display would become active. The display may becomeinactive after a predetermined period of time. The present inventionincludes a receiver that would allow the Newspaper company to change themessages presented using the visual display 800 and/or the audioemitting device 806. The transmitted messages would be changeably storedwithin an electronic module.

[0089] The service person uses a depository access device 520 whenchanging the inventory within the Newspaper Rack 300 or removing anychange deposited within the coin receiving mechanism 290. In thepreferred invention, the depository access device 520 would cause thesystem to activate the transmitter (712 of FIG. 7) and transmit a signalstating that the Newspaper Rack 300 has been serviced. Since thepreferred embodiment of the present invention includes scanning thevarious sensors instead of constantly monitoring the various sensors,there may be a scenario whereby the Newspaper Rack may be serviced andthe logic circuit may not identify that the state of the sensor(s) hasbeen reset. This process guarantees that the system identifies the timethe Newspaper Rack 300 is serviced and initiates a request fortransmission of a representative signal. Alternatively, the system canuse other sensors or switches such as a magnetic switch where theservice person would place a magnetic controller proximate the magneticswitch to cause a change in state of the magnetic switch to institutethe same desired service complete signal.

[0090] Newspaper Racks 300 are located across a large, varied area. Thisdistribution of Newspaper Racks provides a vast ability to collect data.Within the present invention, it can be recognized that sensors toobtain data on external interest can be positioned proximate theNewspaper Rack 300. External sensors can include proximity sensors tomonitor passing traffic, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, raingauges, noise sensors, and any other items that can be desirable to bemonitored. The data collected can be remotely transmitted using the samesystems used for monitoring inventory levels. This provides adistributed network of platforms for collecting data as well as a meansfor offsetting the monitoring costs that would normally be incurred bythe Newspaper company.

[0091]FIG. 9 illustrates a cross sectional view of the storage platform700 and a portion of the components of the present invention notpreviously illustrated herein. The storage platform 700 includes abattery access cutout 900 for accessing the battery 910 located withinthe battery housing 912. The battery housing 912 comprises a housing, abattery-housing door 916 coupled to the battery housing via a batterydoor hinge 918, and a contact 912 for each terminal of the battery 910.The battery-housing door 916 would preferably comprise a compliantmember 920 such as springs to maintain a pressure contact between thebattery terminals and the contacts 914. The battery 910 would beinstalled and removed through the battery access cutout 900 within thestorage platform 700 such as by following a battery changing path 924. Aservice person would open the battery housing door 916, remove the drawnbattery 910, install a fresh battery 910, and close the battery housingdoor 916. When closed, the battery-housing door 916 would apply pressureto maintain an electrical connection between the battery 910 and thecontacts 914. The figure further illustrates the storage platforminventory sensor 720 and the inventory indicating force 926. When atleast one Newspaper 310 is placed onto the storage platform 700, theNewspaper 310 applies the inventory indicating force 926.

[0092] The figure illustrates the vertical platform control columns 902used to control the horizontal position of the storage platform 700.Vertically controlling compliant members 904 such as springs are used toadjust the vertical position of the storage platform 700 when a load isapplied such as filling the Newspaper Rack 300 with Newspapers 310. Aplatform inventory sensor 904 can be coupled to any of the multiplevertical platform control columns 902 in a manner whereby when thestorage platform 700 is raised to a predetermined position, the sensorchanges state (as newspapers are removed the platform is raised by thevertically controlling compliant members 904). Alternatively, theplatform inventory sensor 904 can be coupled to the Newspaper Rack 300side surfaces 504 or front or rear surfaces 506. This provides alternateembodiments for monitoring the inventory of the Newspapers.

[0093] It should be recognized that there are many options regarding howand where to place the various interfaces and the variations should notlimit the spirit or intent of the present invention.

What is claimed:
 1. A Newspaper Rack comprising: at least one of anaccess door and a single feed system; at least one of an inventorysensor to monitor when at least one Newspaper is positioned on astationary platform, at least one Newspaper is removed from a moveableplatform, an inventory sensor to monitor when the moveable platformequals or passes a predetermined position, an inventory sensor tomonitor when the single feed system is at least one of loaded anddepleted and an inventory sensor to monitor when a Newspaper is removedfrom the access door; a circuit for monitoring at least one of the atleast one of inventory sensors of the Newspaper Rack; and a wirelesstransmitter.
 2. The Newspaper Rack of claim 1, the Newspaper Rackfurther comprising: a solar power source.
 3. The Newspaper Rack of claim1, the Newspaper Rack further comprising: a battery.
 4. The NewspaperRack of claim 3, the Newspaper Rack further comprising: a batterymonitoring circuit.
 5. The Newspaper Rack of claim 3, the Newspaper Rackwherein the Newspaper rack comprises the moveable platform and thebattery is coupled to the underside of the moveable platform.
 6. TheNewspaper Rack of claim 1, the Newspaper Rack further comprising: atransparent viewing panel located with the access door, and an antenna,whereby the antenna is coupled to the Newspaper Rack at least one ofexternally and adjacent a transparent viewing panel.
 7. The NewspaperRack of claim 1, the Newspaper Rack further comprising: an automatedpayment system.
 8. The Newspaper Rack of claim 7, the Newspaper Rackfurther comprising at least one of: A) a mechanical coin mechanism, B)an electro-mechanical coin mechanism, C) a cash reader, D) a debt cardreader, E) a credit card reader, F) a smart card system, G) an RFrecognition system, H) an iris recognition system, and I) a fingerprintrecognition system.
 9. The Newspaper Rack of claim 1, the Newspaper Rackfurther comprising: a service indicator, whereby the service indicatoris to be operated by a service person to indicate that the NewspaperRack has received service, and the service indicator is integrated intothe system whereby when the service indicator is operated, the systemtransmits a service indicating signal.
 10. The Newspaper Rack of claim1, the Newspaper Rack further comprising: an external activitymonitoring apparatus.
 11. A Newspaper Rack comprising: a alert sensorthat can detect any unwarranted motion of the Newspaper rack, and atransmitter which transmits a alert message upon change in state of thealert sensor.
 12. The Newspaper Rack of claim 11, the Newspaper rackfurther comprising an inventory sensor designed such to change stateupon at least one of equaling a predetermined quantity, exceeding belowa predetermined quantity, and complete depletion of inventory.
 13. TheNewspaper Rack of claim 11, the Newspaper rack further comprising aglobal positioning system.
 14. The Newspaper Rack of claim 13, furthercomprising a circuit that causes the global positioning system to beingfunctioning in conjunction with the change in state of the alert sensor.15. The Newspaper Rack of claim 11, the Newspaper Rack furthercomprising a solar power source.
 16. The Newspaper Rack of claim 11, theNewspaper Rack further comprising a battery.
 17. The Newspaper Rack ofclaim 11, the Newspaper Rack further comprising an automated paymentsystem.
 18. The Newspaper Rack of claim 17, wherein the automatedpayment system comprises at least one of: J) a mechanical coinmechanism, K) an electro-mechanical coin mechanism, L) a cash reader, M)a debt card reader, N) a credit card reader, O) a smart card system, P)an RF recognition system, Q) an iris recognition system, R) afingerprint recognition system, S) payment made at an ATM machine, andT) payment made at a fuel dispensing apparatus.
 19. The Newspaper Rackof claim 11, Newspaper Rack further comprising: a wireless receiver; adecoding circuit to decode a wireless transmission; an electronicstorage apparatus for storing a sales stimulating message; and at leastone of an electronically changeable, visual alerting display and anaudible alerting device.
 20. A Newspaper Rack comprising: an inventorysensor that identifies at least one of when the inventory of newspapersmeets a predetermined quantity, the number of newspapers becomes blow apredetermined quantity, and the inventory of newspapers is depleted, analert sensor which changes state when the Newspaper Rack is subjected tounwarranted motion, and a transmitter which transmits a signal when atleast one of the inventory sensor and alert sensor is within apredetermined criteria.